Howdy Folks,

I just got a used Basso. I am trying to mostly use parts scavenged from my old road bike that was hit by a jeep. I have a threaded headset, most likely Tange, that is questionable. There is some damage to the races, but not terrible. Sheldon (RIP) brown suggests replacing the retainers with loose balls as a way of extending the life of a slightly damaged headset (more balls will fit in and sit closer together, therefore changing where/how they sit on the race). I like this idea and think it will work, however I wonder the effect repeated headset installations will have on the head tube should I ultimately need to replace the old (slightly damaged) headset?

Asked more clearly: what are the effects of repeatedly removing and installing headsets on the same bike? Will it damage the head tube?

Thank you,

Mikey